Run performs their last performance in New York
During the Hip Hop 50 concert at Yankee Stadium in New York this past weekend, Run-DMC delivered an exhilarating final performance. The renowned rap group took the stage on Friday, August 11, as the culmination of the event organized by Mass Appeal in honor of the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop.
Joseph "Rev. Run" Simmons and Darryl "DMC" McDaniels showcased a series of their timeless hits, including tracks like "It's Like That," "Sucker MC's," "It's Tricky," "Walk This Way," and "My Adidas." Their performance was a fitting tribute to the legacy of Hip Hop.
Beyond the impactful production, the core essence of each track was propelled by the impeccable turntable scratches of the late Jason "Jam Master Jay" Mizell. The iconic DJ met a tragic end in 2002 when he was shot at a recording studio in New York.
As Run-DMC concluded their performance, the iconic red, black, and white logo of the group appeared on the screen alongside the message "JMJ 4EVER," serving as a tribute to the groundbreaking DJ.
The group enshrined in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame initially hinted at their retirement in January during an interview with Rock the Bells, led by DMC.
"Run-DMC's journey has concluded," he remarked. "The only scenario where Run-DMC might reunite is if The Beatles also reunite. Is that even possible?"
Before Run-DMC's performance, fans were treated to a surprise appearance by Nas, who brought out Ms. Lauryn Hill during his set at the star-studded event.
"I currently feel like I'm exactly where I'm meant to be. Since 1973, Hip Hop has existed for both you and me," the iconic figure from Queensbridge stated, before introducing Hill to an eruption of applause from the audience. She delivered a captivating rendition of "Nobody."
Transitioning seamlessly, the duo then delved into their collaborative classic from "It Was Written," "If I Ruled The World," followed by Lauryn Hill taking the spotlight for performances of "Ready or Not," "Doo Wop (That Thing)," "Killing Me Softly With His Song," and "Fu-Gee-La."
Nas also had Kool G Rap join him on stage, and he concluded his set with a powerful performance of "One Mic" before exiting.
In a significant recognition of their impact, Run-DMC was granted their own day in New York City.
The occasion marked a historic night dedicated to celebrating Hip Hop's birthday, with a packed stadium filled with thousands of fans paying tribute to the culture's birthplace.
The lineup of artists at the star-studded event included the reuniting of Wu-Tang Clan, along with performances by Snoop Dogg, Lil Wayne, Ice Cube, Fat Joe, Lupe Fiasco, Eve, Lil Kim, Remy Ma, and Trina.
The concert also served as a tribute to the pioneers who paved the way, including Kurtis Blow, Kool Herc, Grandmaster Caz, Roxanne Shante, Melle Mel, and the Sugarhill Gang.
Adding to the excitement, The Captain and New York Yankees legend Derek Jeter made a special appearance, igniting the crowd in the stadium he once called home.